Concordia Seminary Newsroom
Celebrating 75 years of memories at the Pederson Field House
The Pederson Field House marked its 75th anniversary Feb. 20-22, 2025, bringing together alumni, faculty, students and fans for a memorable celebration that went beyond the basketball courts. The bonds formed under its curved roof, whether through athletic activities or through the shared experience of Seminary life, are an integral part of its lasting legacy. The field house is a symbol of lasting connections, shared history and the impact of Coach Pete Pederson, a pioneer in the Seminary’s athletic programs.
Coach Pete Pederson: a visionary leader
The Pederson Field House honors Coach Eldon E. “Pete” Pederson, whose contributions to Concordia Seminary’s athletic programs helped shape the institution’s athletic culture. Pederson was born in Centerville, S.D., in 1914. After graduating from Morningside College in Iowa in 1936, Pederson served in the Army during World War II. He earned a master’s degree in physical education from the University of Minnesota, and in 1949, he became the first layman to join Concordia Seminary’s faculty as the director of Health and Physical Education.
Throughout the years, Pederson’s vision for athletic programs at the Seminary was transformative. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, he organized sports camps for local children, offering instruction in basketball, baseball, tennis and swimming. He brought in notable figures such as Marty Marion of the St. Louis Cardinals and former professional baseball player Paul “Hurky” Henrichs to coach teams and enhance the experience for young athletes.
Pederson’s commitment to community service extended beyond sports. In 1981, the Seminary honored him by naming the field house in his memory. His legacy continues to inspire those who have passed through its doors, not just as athletes, but as individuals who learned leadership, teamwork and faith through the example he set.
Reflections from alumni
A highlight of the 75th anniversary event was the alumni games, where former students returned to take to the court for a match against the current Preachers players. The annual alumni basketball games have long been a tradition, and for many, they represent much more than just a friendly game of hoops — they offer the opportunity to relive their memories and reconnect with one another. For Rev. James Schnackenberg (’71), pastor of Saint John Lutheran Church in Purdy, Mo., the event was an opportunity to visit with old friends and honor the values that Coach Pederson instilled in them. “What I am enjoying most about this is just coming back to the field house and remembering all the things that Pete was and what he meant to us,” Schnackenberg said.
Dr. Mark Hoehner (’00), who serves at Christ Community Lutheran School in Webster Groves, Mo., echoed similar sentiments. “Basketball’s a vehicle, but it’s really about great friendships,” Hoehner remarked.
Dr. Matt Prince (’02), an active-duty Navy chaplain, remembers being in the field house on 9/11 and watching the tragedy unfold. He says that experience is one of the many reasons why he is a chaplain. “I’m very thankful for this facility and for the fellowship I had with all the men — some of them are here tonight. It’s good to see them and to hear how their ministries have developed over the years and learn more about what they’re doing now. God has blessed our ministries, and He remains faithful,” he said.
The importance of community was a central theme throughout the event. Rev. Adam Tanney (’24), associate pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in East Dundee, Ill., spoke to the power of gathering in such a special place. “Fellowship. It’s all about the fellowship,” Tanney reflected. “I haven’t seen a lot of my classmates since we graduated, so just to come together and spend time and pray with one another — that’s important.”
The legacy of leadership and teamwork
For Rev. Ken Hennings (’73), the field house represents lessons learned that have guided him throughout his life. Hennings recalled the 1970-71 season, where the team achieved a remarkable 21 wins and only 3 losses under the leadership of Coach Pederson. “I learned more about leadership from him than almost anybody else at the Seminary,” Hennings shared. “It was just a wonderful three years for me here at the Seminary and a joy to be able to play basketball. Just wonderful.”
The lessons learned in the field house went far beyond sports. Hennings emphasized the importance of teamwork and the partnerships formed during those formative years. The field house was not just a basketball court; it was a space where life skills were developed, where students grew as leaders and where they learned the true value of cooperation.
A lasting legacy of faith and fellowship
As the 75th anniversary celebration came to a close, it was clear that the Pederson Field House’s significance is not measured only by the games played or the records set, but by the deep and lasting relationships that have been formed within its walls. Rev. Dante Pronsati (’24), associate pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Macomb, Mich., reflected on the importance of shared faith and fellowship. “I love getting to come back for the alumni game now for the first time as an alumnus,” said Pronsati. “I love the camaraderie — seeing the generations of pastors who have come before and getting to share this communal experience together. It’s a great time of playing basketball and remembering what God has done for us.”
The milestone anniversary is a reminder of the enduring legacy of Coach Pete Pederson and the powerful sense of community that the field house has fostered over the years. The connections made there will continue to resonate for generations to come, as alumni return, not only to play basketball, but also to reflect on the lessons, friendships and faith that have shaped their lives.